When must an ABN be delivered to the patient?

An Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN) must be delivered to the patient before services are provided if there is a reason to believe that Medicare may not pay for the service or item being offered. This notice serves as a formal communication to the patient, indicating that they may be financially responsible for the costs associated with the procedure or service if Medicare denies coverage.

Delivering the ABN prior to the service ensures that patients are fully informed of their potential financial responsibility and can make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the service. This proactive approach helps prevent confusion and financial disputes after services have been rendered, as patients are made aware of their liability beforehand.